TI 0943 - International TAs Conversation Series

International TAs Conversation Series: Opportunities and Effective Strategies

Starting out as a TA can be challenging, especially being an international TA who may be comparatively new to the country and the teaching and learning culture at the University of Calgary. Rapid changes to online and blended learning environments have added extra challenges for international TAs to navigate. This workshop presents an open opportunity for facilitators and participants to share the experiences of being an international TA at the University of Calgary. Come to this workshop to discuss topics such as (but not limited to):

• Different types of TA duties and contract expectations,
• Grading and giving feedback,
• Preventing plagiarism and resolving conflict and
• Effective communication with students and the teaching team.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to

• Identify the essentials of TA duties,
• Apply strategies of effective classroom management,
• Enhance their grading practices,
• Explore opportunities for giving constructive feedback,
• Improve their communication with students, instructors and fellow TAs.

Please note: Registration will close 2 business days before each workshop. Participants will receive relevant Zoom information via email at least 1 hour before the designated start time.

International TAs Conversation Series: Resolving Conflict

The Conversation Series for International TAs invites you to engage in conversations about being a TA in the North American higher education context.

In this session on Resolving Conflicts, participants will have opportunity to:

• Engage in meaningful discussions with other TAs on resolving difficult situations within the classroom environment
• Exchange and compare experience of effectively communicating with students in different countries and in North America
• Learn practical strategies on how to develop positive student-TA relationships

Please note: Registration will close 2 business days before each workshop. Participants will receive relevant Zoom information via email at least 1 hour before the designated start time.

International TAs Conversation Series: Intercultural Competence 

This workshop aims to enhance international teaching assistants’ understanding of diverse cultural dynamics within academic settings. This interactive session aims to help participants develop essential skills to effectively communicate and engage with students and colleagues from various cultural backgrounds, which will foster a more inclusive and collaborative learning environment. 

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• cultivate the appreciation of world cultures and intersectional identities, promoting openness and respect in the classroom,
• apply strategies to bridge cultural gaps and create inclusivity, and
• develop cultural sensitivity and adaptability in their teaching practices.

Please note: Registration will close 2 business days before each workshop. Participants will receive relevant Zoom information via email at least 1 hour before the designated start time.